Royce White Explains Why He Hates Flying Despite NBA Travel History

Royce White has pushed back against claims about his travel history, insisting that he has flown throughout his basketball career despite his well-known dislike of air travel.

The former NBA player addressed the issue on X on Tuesday, criticizing what he described as inaccurate narratives being repeated online without proper verification.

White listed several stages of his basketball career where he traveled by plane, including high school, AAU, college and professional basketball. He pointed to his time with the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, Sacramento Kings, NBL Canada and BIG3 as examples.

White wrote that he prefers driving but stressed that he is capable of flying and has done so throughout his career.

Royce White explains why he dislikes flying

White later explained that his dislike of flying comes from several factors. He said the possibility of dying in an airplane accident makes him uncomfortable, even though he acknowledged that such an event is unlikely.

He also criticized airport security procedures, saying that he finds TSA frustrating and prefers the experience of traveling by car.

White argued that driving allows him to see more of the country and provides greater freedom during long-distance travel. He also cited his height and discomfort with limited space on airplanes as additional reasons for preferring road trips.

White’s comments also included several controversial remarks about other passengers and pilots. His statements have added to the debate surrounding his views on air travel and transportation.

White’s NBA career was affected by his concerns about flying

Royce White began his NBA career in 2012 after the Houston Rockets selected him with the 16th overall pick in the NBA Draft.

However, his concerns surrounding air travel became a significant issue early in his professional career. During his rookie season, White asked the Rockets to allow him to travel to some games by private bus rather than flying with the team.

White ultimately played only three NBA games during his career. Much of his professional basketball journey took place outside the NBA, including time in the G League and NBL Canada.

Royce White previously made controversial comments about his fear of flying

White also addressed his relationship with air travel earlier this month during an appearance on The White House Podcast.

During the conversation, he made a provocative claim about the source of his discomfort with flying, linking it to what he described as a transgender identity inside him and an aversion to confined spaces.

The comments came shortly after White made headlines by declaring for the WNBA Draft in a video posted on X, further adding to the attention surrounding his recent public statements.

White continues to attract attention with outspoken views

The former NBA player has remained active on social media and frequently uses his platform to discuss politics, sports and cultural issues.

His latest comments about flying are another example of White directly challenging narratives about his career and personal choices.

While White has made it clear that he dislikes flying, his own account emphasizes that he has traveled by air for numerous basketball teams and competitions throughout his career.